This isn't the only reason I'm looking into therapy--I have several others--but I've had so much trouble functioning since my dog Sandy died in December 2004. I cry a lot and have a hard time concentrating on and doing the things I love (creative activities like writing and singing). Also, my pain over her has kept me from moving forward and getting another Shepherd or Shepherd mix--I really miss having that kind of dog in my life, but it's hard to make that committment without feeling disloyal to Sandy. I want to be able to grieve and love my dog while still going forward in life, and I don't think I can do that without some outside assistance.

My only concern is, I'm afraid my therapist will blow off my pain over losing Sandy. You know, that whole, "It's just a dog--get over it" attitude. I've considered attending the local SPCA's grief counseling sessions, but that's only once a month and I know it won't be enough to really help me. The therapist I'm considering mentions having a dog on her web site, so I think she'd be sympathetic than someone without an animal, but...I'm still worried. Maybe because I've had bad experiences with family members (who have animals!) telling me to "just get over it," I'm a bit skeptical. I don't know.

Has anyone had a positive experience going into therapy to grieve the loss of a beloved animal companion?